Communities and Justice

Shear determination sees inmates pursue career in Ag

13 July 2022

Mannus Correctional Centre inmates are preparing for careers in agriculture post-release, crutching 450 ewes through a formal course that is helping reduce their risk of reoffending.

Overseer Jennifer Peattie said the crutching course assists inmates in developing industry-quality employment skills while also supporting the agricultural centre’s productivity.

"Inmates can work alongside contract shearers who come to Mannus and these skills will be an asset when they’re released, especially with the current shortage of shearers,” Ms Peattie said.

“Pre-lambing crutching is a critical element of farming operations at Mannus to prevent flystrike and wool stains, which would otherwise result in a financial penalty for producers.”

The crutching course at TAFE Primary Industries Centre in Wagga Wagga was successfully completed by 10 inmates.

It included handling white Suffolk composite ewes and using equipment, which inspired inmates to pursue careers in agriculture, like John* who grew up in a city.  

“There is a shearing school running here at the end of the year that I will 100 per cent do and I’m now planning to work on a shearing team when I get out,” John said. 

“Shearing will open up new opportunities and I enjoy the country lifestyle.”

The minimum-security centre spans 4,000 acres – about twice the size of Sydney airport – and runs approximately 3,300 sheep and 40 rams in its mixed farming enterprise.

CSNSW Commissioner Kevin Corcoran PSM said education and employment pathways are key to reducing recidivism, which is a premier’s priority.

“We know engaging inmates in education and work opportunities inside prison drastically decreases their chances of reoffending post-release,” Mr Corcoran said. 

“These skills can also be applied to meaningful employment within a correctional setting to help off-set the costs associated with running prisons.”

Mannus Correctional Centre is an all-male facility, housing up to 160 inmates, who work in areas like the sheep and cattle yards, apple orchard and timber yard.

*Not his real name

Last updated:

12 Aug 2022